Then some Salmon Sushi,



And some Tuna Sushi.



I'm working on a Shrimp one too.

I could eat this stuff every day, that's how much I love it! But I know its not for everyone. So we'll see if anyone has any interest in these. I've put the originals in the shop, matted; and also have prints available, matted or unmatted.

I'm also adding some ACEO size prints for some of the other art I already have in the shop - the herb drawings, some other food, and some kids book art. Basically, if the art lends itself to be cropped into that size well enough, I'm doing an ACEO of it. It'll take me a little time to do them all, but bit by bit I'll get there.


Its been very hot here. Over 100! I managed to get my two 'show pieces' of art delivered to their respective places the other day, in the 104 heat. One went to the State Fair Fine Art Bldg, and the other went to FedEx to be shipped. Its always hard to say good bye to your art, even if its just for a show. I hope both drawings will enjoy their adventures and have a good time being ogled by the public. I will be glad to have them home again in a couple of months!

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Looks like I am not taking off as much time as I thought. I have signed up for two small one day shows in the coming weeks; I go a bit nuts if I stay in my studio for too long.

The first show I am doing is Carnival Noir in downtown Los Angeles this weekend on July 12th. This is a wild event at the Club Monte Cristo; there will be DJs, dancing, magic, burlesque, and plenty of vendors there. This is a 21 and over event only with drink specials and good times for all. Tickets are on sale here.

The following week I will be at the Egyptian Theater for the 4 Hour Film Festival Double Feature and Carnival Masquerade on July 19th. The films being shown are the two classics Freaks and Nosferatu, both amazing and creepy films to chill you to the bone. There will be the Cirque Berzerk along with other live performances. This is also a 21 and over event and tickets are available here.

Have fun and keep creating…

–Diana

The post Some new shows coming up soon… appeared first on Diana Levin Art.

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After a whirlwind tour of the southwest, I am finally home and ready to take a nap. Yet there is no rest for the wicked, new art to do, a book to illustrate, shows to prepare for, and generally going crazy… in a good way. So where to begin? Let’s start with a short recap of the shows I attended.

First up was there was the Long Beach Comic Expo which this year expanded to two days this year. This turned out to be a great move as attendance was great this year and everyone had a great time. We had an odd placement for our table that had me a bit worried, but it all worked out quite well. Lots of great costumes, fun panels for all ages, plus perfect Long Beach weather, what more could one ask for? Next year they are holding it earlier in the year on February 28th and March 1st, plus they are moving into the larger halls, roughly about five times of the space they had this year. So they are going bigger and better, hopefully they are not expanding too big, too fast as I love this convention and want to see it continue for years to come.

Then it was off to the surface of the sun… I mean Arizona for the Phoenix Comicon, which was a fantastic show. There were over 77,000 fans in attendance that kept me and Shawn busy through the weekend. I was amazed at the cosplayers that braved the heat in full costume, brave dedicated fans they are. On a note about Phoenix, I love this show so much that next year is a big thing is happening. Drum roll please… I am moving out of the artist alley into a booth for the show next year. It is amazing and nerve wracking at the same time, but the correct move as my business moves forward and grows.

Shawn and I stayed in Phoenix for the week (thank you Keith), as we had a show the following weekend, Mad Monster Party. This was a small horror convention that took place in downtown Phoenix. It was a fun little show (lots of fun because we were next to our friends from The Mystical Apothecary) that has promise if they bring it back next year, lots of cool fans of horror showed up and there were some great celebrity guests to meet. One of the problems was that since it was the week after the comic con and there might have been some fans that were too worn out to come to this event. There were also some people that seem to find out about the event by happenstance and were unaware of the Mad Monster Party before hand. Their main show is in Charlotte, NC and that one has a great turnout; so maybe with some patience and love, the Phoenix show will grow to attract more attendees.

Finally we headed north to the Amazing Las Vegas Comic Con, a show I vended at last year on their inaugural show. Taking place at the South Point Casino (which is quickly becoming one of my favorite casinos), this year it was bigger and better organized in the placement of tables and booths. Attendance was up this year, but sales were down slightly, but overall a successful show. Thanks to our booth neighbors of Abe Lopez and Stuart Smithee; also thanks to the photo bombers supreme of Justin and Hilary Orr from across the aisle.

I have a few weeks off before San Diego Comic Con (sadly still no booth, but I will have art up in the Sails Pavilion gallery there), so I must go work on some new art pieces for the upcoming shows.

Have fun and keep creating…

–Diana

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As part of Special Edition week, Brooklyn’s Ecott Eder gallery is having a special show, It’s About Comics featuring art by

Phil Hale | Ashley Wood | Jeremy Geddes | Jim Woodring | Robert Crumb | Will Eisner | Jeffrey Brown | Jim Mahfood | Basil Wolverton | Tom Taggart | Jaime Hernandez | Gilbert Hernandez | Chris Ware | Tony Millionaire | Peter Bagge | Milo Manara | Moebius | Chris Bachalo | Gary Panter | Dave Cooper | Rick Griffin | Spain Rodriguez | Kim Deitch | Ryan Heshka  | Frank King | Alex Raymond | Richard Sala | Savage Pencil  … and more!

The line-up featured curated selections from the gallery’s best shows over the last few years. The event begins at 6 Pm.  T-shirts, and  books will be available.

 

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Since I have been in my cave (aka the art studio), I seem to lose track of time. But it has been very productive and I have several new art pieces ready to display. Just in time too as I have Keen Halloween coming up in two weeks and I need to get prints made aplenty.

I have been in a Cthulhu state of mind recently and have made a proper portrait of the Old One in all his grand glory. Let me know what you guys think, maybe I should do one of his buddy King Hastur too.

I will be doing the Canoga Park Art Walk on September 19th, the last one of the summer and I may just have a few of my newer mini paintings on display too. Music, food, and art… what more could you ask for?

I also have just signed up to vend at the Whimsic Alley Halloween Craft Faire in late October. I will have more details as the date gets closer, looks like it will be a lot of fun.

Take care,

–Diana

 

 

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If you are planning on being a vendor at an art fair or convention, here are some ideas to consider for a more worthwhile experience. Especially when sales are slow and your expectations have dropped to just wanting to break even,  consider that time is not wasted if you are actively engaged in marketing your brand. Considering the amount of time and money you spend preparing for the event, making products, buying supplies, displays and promo materials, setting up and tearing down, it is important to get the most out of your time. You are not always going to hit your sales goals. But you can always make contacts, build relationships and gain more subscribers to your mailing list.

Engage in Conversation.  When people come to your booth, say “hello, how are you doing” and try to engage in a conversation. People will be more likely to buy something from you if you are friendly and can chat them up. You can ask people questions about themselves, where they are from or what they like. You never know who you will meet or what you might learn and often times more talk will lead you to figure out what that person likes and you will have a better idea of what you can offer them for sale. I have made more sales this way.

Personally hand them your business card/promo card. If they seem interested in your work, hand them a business card. I have found people are more responsive when you personally hand them something rather than them having to pick it up themselves. When you hand it to them, mention a deal you are having in your booth or online store.

Get people to sign up for your mailing list. You should always ask people to sign up for your mailing list when they buy something from you. Even if someone doesn’t buy anything but shows a genuine interest in your work, let them know you have a mailing list sign-up and explain to them the benefits of being on your mailing list. Ex “You will get updates on my latest work” or “I frequently host giveaways and you have a chance to win free art”. The more people on your mailing list, the more people you can promote to on a regular basis.

Network with other vendors. I’m surprised more vendors don’t do this. Make sure to bring someone with you to the event so that you have a chance to leave your booth every once in while. Most likely, during the curse of the day, there will be down time–a time when sales are slow to non-existent. During that time is the perfect opportunity to leave your booth and socialize with other vendors. You never know who you will meet or what you will learn. I’ve made great friends and learned of new opportunities this way. Some of those vendors can also end up being your best customers and fans.

Connect with people after the event. If you followed my advice above, you probably met quite a few new creative people and taken their business cards. When you get home, follow them on twitter, friend them on Facebook or like their Facebook pages. If I especially made a connection with someone, I will send them a quick email letting them know how nice it was to meet them and give them link to my social networks so they can connect with me. Building relationships is key and will eventually lead to more opportunities and sales.

There is more to do at a convention or art show besides making sales. If you consider sales to be the only important and valid payoff to get out of a show, you will be missing out on the greatest opportunity for building a fan base and creating lasting benefits for your business. Your time is important so make it count.

The post 5 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Art Vending Experience appeared first on Diana Levin Art.

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too often when thinking about our businesses, we tend to only focus on what hasn’t been achieved yet. At least for me it has always been about what still needs to be done or how far I still need to go before reaching my ultimate goals. Although it is valuable to assess where I am in relation to my goals, thinking this way sometimes leaves me feeling like I have somehow fallen short. So to end the year 2012, I have decided to put together a list of everything I accomplished in my business during 2012. And as I set there writing this list, I realized that I actually have come a long way.

I got into the Hive Gallery in Downtown LA as a resident artist

Had a successful Holiday sales season–quadrupled my sales from last year

Signed a licensing deal with a successful clothing and print company–Lowbrow Art Company

Started selling my jewelry at a new store: Co-op 28 Handmade in Hollywood

created lots of new art

expended my zazzle store product line and am making 1-2 sales a day: Now I offer iphone cases and skins, mugs, t-shirts, calendars, journals, totes and more..

Opened my own market stall at Crafted at the Port of LA–even though I closed it after 3 months, it was great experience overall and I got a sense of what it was like having my own permanent shop

Exhibited at a variety of art shows and conventions: Wondercon Anaheim, Designer Con, Batz Day Holiday Show, Pink Parlor Festival, Ink For a Cause, Knotts Berry Farm Christmas Village, HPLovecraft Festival, zombie Fashion Show in Downtown, a more…

Signed up over 300 new fans to my newsletter mailing list

Met lots of new people and built some great relationships

““““

What is your list? What have you accomplished in 2012?

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Awesomeness is happening the world of Diana Levin Art.Here are a list of new stuff going on:

Designer Con 2012-  is an annual art and design convention that smashes together collectible toys and designer apparel with urban, underground and pop art. Saturday November, 3, 2012. @ Pasadena Convention Center , 300 East Green Street. Pasadena, CA 91101

Bats Day-in the fun park. A show for all you Gothic ghouls out there. Sunday, November, 4, 2012. @ DoubleTree Guest Suites Anaheim 2085 South Harbor Blvd Anaheim CA, 92802

Co-op 28 Handmade-My wearable art jewelry will be displayed there. Stop by the store and check out some cute handmade items. @ 1728 N. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, California 90027

Hive Gallery- I will have wall featuring my original art at this amazing gallery starting November. Woohoo…Can’t wait.

 

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It will be my first time  showing at the Pancakes & Booze Art Show in Los Angeles. I will also be vending my Whimsical Fantasy Jewelry and Art.

Here are the details:

When:  Friday, June 24 at 8:00pm – Saturday, June 25 till 2:00am

Where:  LOT 613     613 IMPERIAL STREET  Los Angeles, CA

FREE All-U-Can-Eat PANCAKE BAR & LOADS of ART from OVER 75 LOCAL ARTISTS!!!…2-DAY EVENT!!!

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Next is my a group show I will be participating in called Ladies Night in Oxnard. I will also have a booth set up selling my Whimsical Fantasy jewelry and art.

Arts for Action & Pistol Productions Presents:

LADIES NIGHT ART SHOW!!!!
JUNE 18TH 2011

Exhibit will run for a month, from June 18th- July 18th 2011

Join us for a night commemorating the Female Artists. The Exhibit will consist of over 20 female artists displaying new works for 2011 and will be held at Arts for Action.

LIVE PAINTING
VENDORS
SNACKS & GOODIES

and Live music by RESIDUO & AFTERGLOAM!!!

 

 

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Outside the Frame Show was a huge success. We had a really great vibe. The people were great and as always, the artwork was awesome!

Be sure to check out Space 2710 for more music and art events in Eagle Rock, CA

Here is some photos from the event:

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I have just participated in the Patchwork Indie Craft show in Long Beach.  There were many great vendors selling their handmade goods plus a really spectacular Argentinian Food truck where I bought an amazingly delicious chicken sandwich. That might have been the highlight of my day.  Some not so great things–wind blowing all of my prints and me having to chase after them every 5 minutes. Also I was a little disappointed at the amount of sales I made. Not that I did horribly. I ended up making my money back plus some. But from what I have heard of Patchwork, I was expecting a little more. Other than that, it was great.  I might come back next time with a bigger display and some t-shirts. Now on to planning my next show.

The next show is the first ever Canoga Park Summer Artwalk on Thursday May 19, from 6-9pm. I will be selling my Whimsical Fantasy Jewelry and Art Prints and Showing some of my latest work.

 

 

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I will have a piece in this show, “Snow Queen” Mixed Media original.

Date: Friday, April 29th
Time: 7PM-11PM
Location: Dogwood Studio & Art Gallery

Pistol Productions presents BOUND! A one night group art exhibit inspired by your favorite books, stories, and characters! The show takes place Friday, April 29th @ Dogwood Studio & Art Gallery in Ventura (next to Architexture Hair Salon).

WE’RE HAVING A BOOK DRIVE FOR WRITE ON! FOR LITERACY! DONATE A BOOK TO WRITE ON! AND YOU COULD WIN A FREE TATTOO AND MANY MORE GREAT PRIZES!!
Write On! For Literacy is a Ventura-based organization founded in 2001 to empower youth through reading and writing. PLEASE DONATE BOOKS FOR CHILDREN, MIDDLE-GRADE READERS, AND YOUNG ADULT BOOKS. Books must be new or in very good condition.

The notion of art inspired by literature is certainly nothing new. Just as Michelangelo was moved to pick up his paintbrush after reading Dante’s The Divine Comedy so countless artists have been inspired in his wake by the written word. Join us and see an amazing collection of art inspired by literature!

Music by DJ Also
BURLESQUE performance by Lucille Highball! She’ll be performing a routine inspired by a character in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland”! Come to the show to find out who she chose!

More than 15 So Cal artists, have searched the recesses of their bookshelves and will be creating something inspired by a certain title or character that has impacted their lives…..

LIKE Pistol Productions:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pistol-Productions/125592074140176

LIKE Dogwood Studio:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dogwood-Studio/106261389412731

For more information about Write On! For Literacy, please visit www.writeonbooks.org.

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Wonder Cat is a lovely striped cat wearing a top hat. Beautiful vibrant colors. Inspired by the Cheshire Cat character in one of my favorite children book stories, Alice in Wonderland.

This glass pendant is horizontal 11/4″ wide by 7/8″ tall.

It comes with a 16″ ultra Fine 1.2mm Silver Plated Snake Chain Necklace with Lobster Clasps.

I make all of my jewelry by hand.

This pendant is not waterproof. Please do not wear while swimming or taking a shower.

All jewelry is packaged in a cute little box.  Only $23. Buy Now

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Here is some footage taken from the Characters! Art Shoe by Shawn Carrasco.

A handful of artists and Artisans have been interviewed: Me, Sandra Chang-Adair, Kris Nakamura and Brenda Di Bella

Please check out Shawn Carrasco’s other videos on his YouTube Channel.

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Truckit Fest: Food trucks, crafty vendors, chairs breaking, eating yummy churro tots, fun with my friends Brenda and Melody, meeting cool people and selling my Pendants and artwork. It was an interesting and valuable experience for me. I am now entering the world of craft fairs. Note to self for the future: bring sturdier chairs next time, make more mini pendants (because people have been asking for those) and work on building a more effective display and presentation of my work. Definitely make a banner with large letters “Whimsical Fantasy Art” with lot’s of posters of my work to draw the crowd in.

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At some point that night I’m thinking “where are all these people coming from?” That is definitely something you want to say to yourself when you are putting on an art show. If your only problem is that you have so many guests that people can barely move in the room and some even have to stand outside because it’s so crowded, well then you got yourself a problem worth complaining about. Than the band shows up, Aftergloam–and although there were some technical difficulties with setting up the equipment at first, eventually we got it to work and they rocked the house.  Emerald Lounge was the second band of the evening and they were pretty awesome as well.

Now I got some photographs of the whole shindig in Studio 5216

Want to be on my mailing list for future shows? email me at [email protected]

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It’s been an amazing year so far and I know that it’s only going to get better and more exciting as the months go. So much has happened that it’s hard to mention everything in one post, but I will highlight the most important stuff.

I am getting into action with selling my jewelry and artwork and building the Whimsical Fantasy brand. At the same time I am also working on connecting artists and building a creative community, and hopefully making a difference in people’s lives. At the end of the day, that’s what really matters.

My vision is to see my creative business expand in such a way that people will be able to recognize my work and easily be able to connect it with my name. I also want to help create a stronger artistic community in the LA area, contribute to others fulfilling on their dreams and expand a conversation for what’s possible.

So here is the schedule of events I’ll be participating in and hosting this month:

Exhibiting at the Downtown Art Park
Thursday Feb. 10
Selling Whimsical Fantasy Jewelry, art prints and original paintings

Ice Skating and Jewelry Sale
Saturday Feb. 12  1-7pm
I’m Selling Whimsical Fantasy Jewelry, art prints and original paintings
Other artists: Brenda Di Bella and her Shelby Love Jewelry
Jennifer Korsen and her scarves, hats and Jewelry

Introduction to Landmark Forum
Tuesday Feb. 15, 7-10pm
5200 W.Century Blvd., Los Angeles
I’m hosting an event about creating a life you love and living it powerfully

Characters! Art Show
Saturday Feb. 26 6-11pm
Hosting a show in Hollywood: Artwork by LA’s local artists, live music and jewelry and handmade sale

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Announcing a number of art shows going on this weekend, Dec. 3-5.  This is a great time to support your independent artists, crafters and musicians. Get your loved ones something unique and one-of-a-kind this season. It’s so much more fun than hitting the malls. Instead enjoy a weekend of creativity and inspiration.

Friday: $99 Only Show Stoneworks Studios & Gallery   *  300 N. Ventura Ave.  Ventura, CA

First Friday at Stoneworks! 5% of all artwork sold helps local food banks and charities! Help local artists, help the community, and score some sweet art gifts for your loved ones!

I have 6 pieces in this show

Poster design by Evan Ames

Saturday:

Inside Is Delightful Art Show Space 2710  *   2710 W. Avenue 34 Los Angeles,  CA

An evening of pure awesomeness!!! Come see some great art by some of LA’s most talented and exciting artists. Enjoy live music and be around fun and creative people. We will have snacks and refreshments available.

Also we will have a merchandise table full of unique handmade goodies that artists will be selling at the show. You won’t want to miss out on this.

I’m organizing this show and so excited by so many talented contributions.

Poster design by Evan Ames

Sunday:

The Chroma Studios’s Secret Shopping Spree The Chroma Studio  *  8229 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 101

Find that extra special hand-made holiday gift in an unlikely place…a hair salon! Come join us on Sunday!

Artists include:
Julie Ego – “My Ego Jewelry”
Genevieve – “Scarves”
Jaimee Itagaki – “Scorpio Moon – Photographs/Jewelry”
Diana Levin – “Whimsical Fantasy Paintings/Jewelry”
Susan Yokoyama – “Mini Psychic Readings”
Zodax and Rosy Rings – “Candles”
Sandra Chang-Adair – “Banzai Chicks T-shirts/Jewelry/Magnets”

Complimentary gift wrapping, Barista/hot beverages & more!

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1. We are hanging the Maine Illustrators' Collective Classics Reimagined show on Monday, November 2nd. If you'd like to come and/or attend the opening, here is the information:


2. If you won't be able to make it and would like to see my piece here it is:

From Aesop's, The Fox and The Crow.

3. If you are wondering why I'm up early it's because I have so much work to do on my VCFA packet. I always seem to get to this point. I read for too long then I'm crunched for writing time.  (I know, Mona. Six am isn't early but I've been up and working since four.) I needed an extension last time and I'm set on not asking for another one. Feeling a little anxious.
4. I just bought a wide format Epson printer with the money I'm earning from my illustration work for hire. Very exciting but it is an investment.
5. Even though I just dealt with a disappointing rejection on the job scene, I'm applying for yet another one. I guess that is just how it goes, but I start to wonder-- between writing rejections and job rejections, how much can I take before I want to curl up and hide from the world? Perhaps it is a little like child birth though. Nature allows us to forget the pain so that we will do it all again. At least at the end of child birth you have the beautiful child. I'm ready to see the fruits of my labor on the job market. And in the children's book industry for that matter.
6. Lucy the yellow lab puppy is coming home to our house on November 15th. She'll be 9 weeks old and is as cute as cute can be. I'll post pics when I get some. I only have them on my phone and don't have a plan that allows me email them to myself. (ACK!)

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Many women start careers in their 20's and then choose to take a break and raise small children in their 30's. When the kiddos are older many of those women choose to return to the workplace. Get this... it's not that easy. Have you ever noticed how most applications have sections that say, please explain any gaps in employment. It is so negative. And, if you are like me, and trying to change fields (not even whole careers, just from one field to another within the same industry) it is even harder. Add to that a crappy economy and 10% unemployment... just let me say that it is difficult to keep your spirits up. I wasn't feeling so great when my last application ended with no interview. This news definitely started the week on a downer. Well I'm here to tell you that I'm on the brighter side of things today.

No. No day job. No contract. No agent. HOWEVER... I spent a lovely day with my husband on a road trip to the wonderful town of Belfast. We went to deliver my painting for the Maine Farmland Trust show and auction. (More about that in the next paragraph.) While driving, we feasted on fall foliage shining in sea and stream. We talked, we listened to The Off Season by Catherine Gilbert Murdock...


Shop Indie Bookstores

... I absolutely love the Wisconsin accent that the audiobook actress uses

and we loved, loved, loved Belfast. I guess Belfast is one of those towns that is easy to skip. We've lived in Maine 15 years and manage to drive right by it on Route 1. As we go over the bridge we always look down and say, "We really should stop and look around that cute town." I'm so glad we did. In addition to the Maine Farmland Trust gallery there are 20 other amazing art galleries. We were lucky to get a recommendation to eat at Chase's Daily. Definitely get off Route One to go to Chase's.

If you are in Belfast between now and November 16th, stop at the Maine Farmland Trust gallery and look at the art. If you are a member, you get to attend the Tenth Anniversary Celebration Show and Auction. Don't miss it. Membership is reasonable. The student rate is only $20 and the Family membership is only $50. The trust protects farmland by matching farmers with lease and buy opportunities that keep America farming.

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This has been a busy week so I guess we'll get right down to it:
1. I went to the Yarmouth Art Festival opening last night and was amazed by the showing. St. Bartholomew's church in Yarmouth was packed with art lovers. The show will be up through Saturday if you'd like to see it. Also, you can preview the works in the online catalog.
2. I had a great visit with my parents who came up to leaf peep this past week. They enjoyed the maples and the grandchildren and gave hubby and I chance to go out on the town for our...
3. Sixteenth Anniversary! Every year is better than the last. How long have you been married?
4. My son I. tried out for travel basketball and didn't make it. There were enough kiddos there for two teams but they could only have one. It got me thinking that the kids who DID make it, are automatically the Varsity team for highschool. That's it. Decided in 5th grade. The kids who made the team get better coaching, a team with more skillful  team members to learn from, and more experience with challenging games. Of course the 5th grade travel team becomes the 6th grade travel team, and the A-team in Jr. High and then high school. What a shame we don't give all kids the chance to succeed. (This sports situation is of course true for music and academics as well.)
5. I did not get an interview for the teaching job I applied for.
6. Had to ask for an extension on my MFA packet because things have been so busy. Must complete.
7. If you have a MG or Picture book fiction or nonfiction) coming out this year, I'd love to review it. Tell me in the comments or contact me at anna at annajboll.com
8. Must work on image for the Maine Illustrators' Collective Classics Reimagined show!
9.Brrr... I think winter is right around the corner. Windy and cold enough to turn on the heat.
10. Looking at puppies.

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